RoSPA Press Office : Press Release

June 29, 2007
WARNING TO WALKERS AS MORE RAIN FORECAST

With more heavy rain forecast over the weekend, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents today warned people out walking in the countryside to take great care – particularly when near rivers and streams.

Peter Cornall, Head of Leisure Safety at RoSPA, said: “People have slipped into swollen rivers and streams in the past and lives have been lost.

“You should keep well clear and definitely not walk near rivers where you cannot see the edge. Avoid flooded fields if possible and keep dogs on a lead so that there is no danger of them jumping into the water and being carried away.

“Hill walkers need to be extremely careful when crossing streams as these can soon become torrents, with large volumes of water draining from higher slopes. It is best to use a bridge or make a detour.

“Paths will also be slippery, increasing the chances of a fall.

“Unfortunately many people still do not appreciate the power and speed of rising floodwater. It can rise very quickly and as little as 18 inches of fast-flowing water can knock adults off their feet and sweep them away.

“During severe flooding throughout the UK in 1999, 21 people drowned. At least seven lives have already been lost this year and we do not want to see any more tragedies.”